We sincerely hope that this section will undoubtedly help you answer some questions in your mind about that purchase.

Hopefully, you'll find the answers you seek.

What Are The Main Components of a Plasma Cutter?

Well, a plasma cutter must have a compressor, an inverter, earthing clamp, pipes, and cables as well as guide accessories. The compressor may be integrated or not. However, the cutting head features some parts of its own. These are:

Torch

Electrode

Supply nozzle

Cooling nozzle

Buffer

What Types Of Materials Can A Plasma Cutter Cut?

In general, the plasma cutter is ideal for cutting any electrically conductive metal, including aluminum, steel, stainless steel, copper, brass and so on. But wood and plastic are can’t be cut with a plasma cutter as they are not electrically conductive.

What Thickness Of Metal Can A Plasma Cutter Cut?

Well, the maximum cutting capability of a plasma cutter depends on the maximum amperage of the plasma system and the type of material you need to cut. A plasma cutter can cut steel and non-ferrous metal less than 1-inch thickness depending on the plasma cutter model you used. Lower amp plasma cutter able to cut up to ¼-inch while higher amp units can cut up to 1-inch or more.

For greater thickness, say up to 40mm, you’ve to go for the 400V+ model. However, some professional grade plasma cutter can cut up to 70mm thickness. The manufacturer usually provides the cutting speed (measured in IPM or inches per minute) for all thickness of metal.

What Are The Factors That I Should Consider When Making A Buying Decision Of Plasma Cutter?

When you’re considering purchasing a plasma cutter, we highly recommend doing your research. It’s also essential to know the differences in price as well as that with the ability. Typically, you should consider the specific machine features, cutting speed, and sheet type.

What Safety Equipment Should I Use When Using A Plasma Cutter?

Leather apron, flexible gloves, and work shoes are also essential gear to protect you from droplets and sparks of metal.

How Do I Choose The Electrical Output That Is Right For Me?

110Volt or 220volt- what type of electrical output your job site or workshop features is an essential factor when choosing a plasma cutter. The reason is each plasma cutter comes with its electricity requirement. Some features 110V, some others 220V whereas some versatile model can handle both.

What Performance Should I Look For In A Plasma Cutter?

Choose the plasma cutter that provides smooth and precise cut. It’s best to select the model that produces no slag which means less cleanup. This type of plasma cutter will give you a perfect cut.

How Will I Choose The Right Amp For My Work?

Which Consumable Do I Need To Use With Plasma Cutter?

Usually, nozzle, electrode, retaining cap, shield and swirl ring are used with the plasma cutter.

How Many Consumables Do I Need To Stock?

It depends on your usage patterns and production requirements. However, nozzle and electrode may require replacing frequently.

Why Do I Prefer Plasma Cutter, But Not Laser Or Water Jet?

The simple answer is due to the cost of cut per inch of thickness. The cost of cutting per inch of thickness with laser or water jet is high compared to the plasma cutter. It’s also the most economical way to cut ferrous and non-ferrous materials.

Can I Use Plasma Cuter To Cut Aluminum and Stainless?

Definitely. You can use a plasma cutter to cut any ferrous and non-ferrous metal. Any standard plasma cutter will do the job correctly, while high-performance unit will do a better job.

Why Should I Buy A Quality Plasma Cutter?

There are many reasons as to invest in a quality plasma cutter. First of all, buying a plasma cutter is an investment, it’s not a liability. You’re buying the unit to use it for some years, not days. If you go for a cheap and poor quality unit, you’ve to replace the tool within a few months. It’ll be your waste of money and time.

I’m A First Time User of The Plasma Cutter. Which One Will Be Best For Me?

For the first time user, any portable option with an integrated compressor will work fine. The lightweight, compact size along with the simple technical features may be the most effective solution for the first-time user.

Firstly, one thing may confuse you that is it wise to invest in a q﻿﻿uality plasm﻿﻿a cutter?

Before finding out the answer, you should know that a plasma cutter is -

A versatile tool you can use it for different metal works.

A very useful tool to build and repair any type of metal projects.

Very essential to make the metal working easy and fast.

Best Plasma Cutter Reviews For The Money 2018

To make your hard task easier, here we've picked top rated plasma cutters which are perfect for both the professional and DIY in terms of the user friendliness, durability, a variety of needs as well as budget.

Lotos LTP5000D -

If you want to achieve clean and smooth cuts of a wide range of materials and surfaces, Lotos LTP5000D 50Amp Non-Touch Pilot Arc Plasma Cutter is the best option for you. Whether you intend to cut aluminium, stainless steel, brass, alloy steel, or other conductive material, this tool will provide you the maximum output with minimal heat input. Featuring with the Pilot Arc technology, this cutter provides constant, concentrated and fine tuned arc that makes it possible to cut the materials efficiently within an incredibly short period.

All the process done without the direct touch of the cutter with the object and without generating any remarkable slag and dust. Thin or thick- whatever the thickness of the materials, its MOSFET transistor makes the cutting job easy. Its dual voltage feature offers you more variations that enable it to work on 110V 50/60 HZ or 220V 50/60 HZ.

Hobart Airforce 40i - Best Portable Plasma Cutter

Featuring inverter technology, Hobart Airforce 40i is one of the lightweight, yet powerful cutting system available in the market today. Not only that, Hobart 40i plasma cutter offers you more efficient air consumption, more efficient cooling, extremely flexible cables, trigger safety as well as cost-effective XT40R torch consumables.

Pilot Arc Controller - This feature enhances its cutting ability on expanded metals. Its auto re-fire technology keeps the torch arc going even when cutting coated or painted surfaces. That is, you don’t need to re-fire the torch frequently while working on these metals.

Ergonomic Design, High-Performance Torch - This plasma cutter comes with an XT40R torch. Its ergonomic design makes it very comfortable in your hand. Its extra efficient cooling and long lasting cutting tips make the tool more cost-effective.

Post-Flow Air Cooling - Featuring the post-flow air cooling, Hobart airforce 40i allows the torch and tip to cool immediately after you finish cutting. This feature helps the plasma cutter to enhance the lifespan electrodes as well as the tips.

Wind Tunnel Mechanism - Integrated with this mechanism, the unit draws inner air flow. Thus, it blocks the abrasive particles and dust to damage the internal parts.

Thermal Overload Protection - This unit is built to hold off the roughest environments. Its thermal overload protection lets the unit to shut down if the duty cycle exceeds or the airflow is blocked. Thus, this feature helps the unit to prevent damage from overheating.

Line Voltage Compensation (LVC) - Its LVC ensures a steady as well as cleaner ending cut by keeping the output power source uninterrupted under variable input voltage conditions.

Hobart Airforce 40i Plasma Cutter is a plasma cutting system that comes with a lot of features into a very portable package. The unit is simple to set up and use, lightweight yet powerful and high quality.

Hypertherm Powermax30 XP - High Performing and Reliable Plasma Cutter For Home/industrial Use

Faster, easier, and reliable cutting and gauging job at a lower cost is no more a dream with Hypertherm 088079 Powermax30 XP Building America Edition Hand Plasma System. Whether the material is thick or thin, the tool provides high-power capability plus Fine Cut Consumables to get your job done.

Its superior cut quality allows you to cut any kind of metal such as aluminium, mild steel, stainless steel or even painted or rusted metal without using any explosive or expensive gasses. The product comes with a dust cover that keeps the users comfortable and safe. Whether your job is cutting precision parts, constructing, fabricating or gouging, you can rely on this tool.

Highly Portable - Its lightweight, compact design and carry strap make the power unit highly portable.

Rugged Torch Lead - provide protection and ensure performance in the most demanding environments.

Storage Case - convenient for organizing and maintaining consumables.

Certification: CSA certified.

The system comes with everything you need to cut quickly and easily. It’s a durable, high-performing and versatile cutter. Its user-friendly and easy-to-use feature makes the tool perfect for the hobbyist as well as professional.

Lotos LT5000D -

Get strong cutting performance with the compact and safe cutting tool Lotos LT5000D Plasma Cutter 50Amps Dual Voltage Compact Metal Cutter. The versatile cutting tool uses AC/DC power type that allows you to cut stainless steel, mild steel, aluminium, alloy steel or other metal materials with high speed and precisions. Featuring with the PWM (Pulse-Width-Modulation) Technology, it generates powerful DC welding currents. Cutting the much thicker material is now no problem at all with this plasma cutter.

Its high-frequency plasma, cut the metal like a hot knife through the butter. The air plasma cutting tool is safer and fire hazard free than the Oxy-hydrogen cutting. The purified and completely dry air passing through the nozzle is sparkling resistant and reduce the possibilities of fire accidents. You can use the tool for a long time, but the most advanced and vital German cooling technology keeps the temperature control.

Hobart Airforce 12ci - Plasma Cutter With Built In Air Compressor

If you’re looking for a top notch plasma cutting machine in a compact design with the latest technology, ​Hobart 500564 Airforce 12ci Plasma Cutter with Built-In Air Compressor 120V is the best pick for you. Although this tool is designed for small steel-work where speed isn’t an issue, but it offers impressive cutting results to the users. The combination of an electrical arc and compressed air, this tool enables you to cut any conductive metal like steel, aluminium, cutting sheet metal, 1/8-inch or even 1/4-inch mild steel. The cutting process is very efficient and quicker than Oxy-fuel. It works on the standard household voltage (120V and 20 amp.).

The built-in compressor and inverter power supply make the tool lightweight and compact. If you need to move with the tool from one job site to another during cutting, this is the product that offers you maximum convenient usage. A cable management strap, work cable, and torch in place make its transportation easier. The tool doesn’t need any pre-assembling. You don’t’ need to preset the pressure or to purchase an additional compressor. Just open the pack and ready to use.

Finger Contours - eliminate any possibilities of fatigue during working with it.

Post-Flow Air Cooling System - provides a cooling effect on the tip and torch that makes the tip and electrode long lasting.Fan On Demand Technology - function

Fan On Demand Technology - functions when required.

Diagnostic LED Light - detect the torch readiness and show the status of the system for power, the temperature that reduces the unnecessary downtime.

Compact And Portable Design - Featuring with the inverter technology, this tool is convenient and totally portable.

Enjoy all the benefits of this cutting tool that features with all the modern cutting technology.

Convenient usage, faster and precise cutting result, ease-of-use, portability and flexibility and what more features to you need to ask for a cutting tool? Overall, a durable and versatile product at an affordable price.

Longevity ForceCut 42i 40-Amp Plasma Cutter Auto-Voltage

Longevity is a brand that you can trust more often. Longevity ForceCut 42i 40-Amp Plasma Cutter is a decent professional series plasma cutter. This is a great addition for your home and workshop. Its dual voltage capabilities, excellent cutting quality, and highest performance make it one of the best plasma cutter of its class for the price.

Its dual voltage adaptor helps to change the voltage quickly that makes the tool convenient and easy to use. It can cut up to 1” thick metal effortlessly. The pilot arc technology allows cutting the painted and rusted metals without a hassle. Featuring only 35 lbs, this cutting tool is extremely portable and travel-friendly.

Blowback Arc Start - ignite the plasma arc by creating an internal spark without any need for high frequency.

Efficient Igbt Inverter Technology - reduces the weight and dimensions of the unit while increases efficiency.

Travel-Friendly Design - amazingly lightweight and portable that comes with a carrying strap.

The Longevity ForceCut 42i 40-Amp Plasma Cutter is well known for its excellent cutting quality and performance. Overall, a super plasma cutter that will help you cut through metal with great ease. Lightweight, compact design, but still provides professional grade power and quality.

Eastwood Versa Cut 60 - Best Plasma Cutter Under $1000

If you want fast and clean cuts through materials as thin as 24-gauge or as thick as 7/8- inch, Eastwood Versa Cut 60 Plasma Cutter is the smartest choice. Compared to the other mechanical cutting of its class, this tool cuts more easily and precisely and significantly faster. Whether you cut steel, stainless or aluminum, rusty material or expanded metal, the built-in pilot arc system provides instant arc striking and ease of use. Featuring with the internal moisture separator, the tool ensures clean, dry air to the torch. Its dual voltage capabilities allow the machine to work anywhere with 110V or 220V outlet. You can adjust the amp output from 20-60 amps as your preference.

However, its 220-volt input and high-frequency output offer surprisingly precise and faster cut. Its portable design makes the machine comfortable to use.

Featuring with a heavy-metal MOSFET inverter and internal moisture separator, this is one of the most useful and long-lasting cutting tools in the market. It’s 20-ft torch and 10-ft ground cable makes your cutting job easy. The machine also comes with an adjustable air pressure regulator that ensures accurate cut. The torch fits in user’s hand comfortably without creating fatigue while working with it for a long time.

This is one of the versatile and ease to use cutting tool. Even the new user who hasn’t used this type of cutting tool before, can use it easily and comfortably. Designed to be efficient, reliable, portable as well as affordable, this cutting instrument perfect for home use or workshop. If you do a lot of cutting jobs and often, this is one of the cutters that you should review before you buy anything else.

Overall, a product that you’ll love for its versatility and durability.

Miller Plasma Cutter, Inverter, Spectrum 375

If you’re searching for a plasma cutter that comes with everything that a user wish to get with the purchase, the spectrum 375 may be the best choice for you. An XT30 torch, MVP plugs, A heavy-duty work clamp, an X-case, a shoulder strap as well as a set of consumables all includes in this package. Featuring only 19lbc weight, its lightweight and incredibly compact design satisfy any user who frequently needs to move with it. Its dual voltage capabilities make it possible to plug into most standard outlets of 120V or 240V with Auto-Line Technology and MVP adaptors.

Use the machine anywhere you need with its long electrical cord and heavy duty work clamp with 12-ft flexible cable. Moreover, lengthy electrical cord ensures that you can reach an outlet without using extension cords. The most versatile and easy-to-use plasma cutter allow you to cut any conductive metals smoothly and with great ease. You can finish the whole process done within a short time. This is a great tool for cutting mild steel up to 3/8 inch thick. What’s more, the product comes with carrying case that allows you to transport the tools easily and in greater protection. In addition, the case is roomy enough to hold all the protective equipment of the user.

All The Great Features And Benefits At A Glance -

Rated Cutting Capacity - the cutting capacity of this tool is 3/8” at 18 IPM (inches per minute) that provides a steady and precise cut.

XT30 Torch - The flexible cable with ergonomic handle allows the user to grip it comfortably and the finger contours help prevent fatigue while working for a long time.

Auto-Line - provides state-of –the-art flexibility to the user. You don’t need to remove the covers to relink the power source as it automatically connects to 120-240VAC,50/60Hz, single-phase power.

Auto-Refire Technology - automatically control the pilot arc. When cutting expanded metal or thicker metal, you don’t need manual re-triggering. The pilot arc is automatically switched in and out as fast as needed.

Fan-On-Demand - allows the user to operate when needed. This feature reduces the amount of dust or dirt pulled through the unit.

Cutting, portability and durability- considering all these factor Miller Spectrum 375 is one of the best cutters on the market. Enjoy the “horse power” at 220V and versatility as well as better performance with this cutting tool. With this product, you’ll get what you pay for.

Do you believe the concept of buying a machine having a larger capacity than you actually need?

But no more! To achieve the maximum cutting capacity all day as recommended, Thermal Dynamics 1-4200: Cutmaster 42 Plasma System is one of the reliable cutting tools available in the market. This tool is designed to deliver a superior cutting result at two different voltages. When switching to 120V to 230V, the machine enhances its power providing 40amp.

Featuring with the Vent2Shield technology, this machine comes with a smaller compressor. This feature makes the tool lightweight though it is one of the most powerful models in the series. This versatile machine allows you to cut ¼ inch to 5/8 inch with ease. Industry-leading 4-year warranty ensures that this cutting tool is strongly crafted and will work for a long time.

User-Friendly - The ergonomic torch fits the hand naturally during work and thus provides easy cutting without causing any hand fatigue.

Thermal Dynamics 1-4200: Cutmaster 42 Plasma System is one of the most affordable, user-friendly cutting tool. Highly functional, durable, portable, very high cutting speed, great performance- all the great features you will get from this cutting tool and without breaking your bank. Overall, a great product.

If you’re an enthusiastic do-it-yourselfer or have no previous experience with cutting tools, then Ramsond CUT 50DX, 50 Amp Digital Inverter Portable Air Plasma Cutter may be the best product what you’re looking for. As a user, you’ll surely be impressed with its all the great features like high frequency, dual voltage, Inverter Technology, Upgraded German made cooling system, PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) and much more. The 50DX comes with two new features-Digital-lamp display and Integrated pressure gauge. The foldable handle is another upgradation of this tool.

The combination of High-Frequency Inverter Technology and Pulse Width Modulation ensures a great cutting performance, providing a concentrated, more constant and precise current to the cutting surface. You’ll get the best cutting result with minimal heat input and without distortion of metal. In spite of coming with a number of features and upgradation, its size is still compact and lightweight. Actually, the tool is designed to keep in mind the demands of a hobbyist as well as a professional operator.

Instead of Oxyfuel, the cutting tool use compressed air, thus making it safer. The tool doesn’t require ignitions to start the process.

All The Great Features And Benefits At A Glance -

User Friendly - unlike traditional model, the integrated pressure gauge located on the front panel, that makes it visible from any angle.

Digital Display - accurately shows the current settings of the unit.

Unrivaled Quality - The tool is produced maintaining the industry’s most rigid standards that ensure the product is not only safe but also reliable in both durability and performance.

Cost-effective - The plasma cutter doesn’t use any expensive gasses. Using of compressed air reduces the cost per cutting hours remarkably.

Hassle-Free Operation - The first time user can also use the tool easily. Keeping the torch at 90-degree angle, grab the tip of the torch on the metal and you get the job done.

2-In-1 Air Filter/ Regulator System - regulates the output air pressure and keeps the air dry and clean.

Advanced Inverter Technology - along with the most advanced Toshiba MOSFETs (Metal Oxide Semiconductor Field Effect Transistor) produces the thousands of Hertz, that eventually reduces the weight and dimensions of the transformer, yet increased efficiency.

A Fully Insulated Folded Handle - makes the machine 100% portable.

Overall, a well-built, technically sound cutting tool that provides super cutting performance without having to spend thousands of dollars. You’ll surely be impressed with its highest level of performance, comparing its price with more costly similar equipment. Moreover, although the tool is designed for the occasional or recreational job, it is also suitable for serious work such as car repair, construction of garden furniture or ornaments and much more.

Hobart 500534R 250ci Plasma cutter

Featuring all the elements that an efficient cutting tool has, the Hobart Airforce 250ci is one of the famous cutters in the market. The unit uses an electrical circular segment and packed air to cut aluminium, steel or other conductive metals. The tool runs on standard household current (115 VAC) and is designed to slice up sheet metal, 1/8-inch mild steel, and even ¼-inch mellow steel. The cutter comes with built-in piston-driven air compressor HP-25 torch with 16.5-feet lead and consumables.

All The Great Features And Benefits At A Glance -

Easy To Set Up- The assembly of this tool is so natural. The instrument comes ready to cut out of the box and you don’t need to set the trigger’s or KB’ s. Follow the direction of the container, simply connect it to the divider and get the tool ready to work.

Easy To Use- The built-in air compressor and lightweight inverter power supply make the cutting tool absolutely convenient. Compared to the Oxy-fuel cutting framework, this plasma cutting is simple and easy.

Lightweight, Compact Design- This feature allows you to bring it with you wherever you need to use it.

Money Saver- You don’t need to manage a costly air compressor. Along with this line, this is a great deal of cash without breaking the bank.

This power tool is an excellent product for the cash. The quality and reliability of the tool make it ideal for a superb plasma cut. It is specially designed to satisfy the users need without any stress. If you want a plasma cutter that works for a long time, then Hobart 500534R 250ci Reconditioned A-Stock Air Force is the only option for you that you can achieve with an affordable price.

Things To Consider Before Buying The Best Plasma Cutter

Whatever be the brands, models, sizes or amperages, there’re some basic things you should consider before buying a plasma cutter. Answering the following questions will make your task easier to find the right plasma cutter:

How much time do you need to use this machine?

What sort of power source is there available when you intend to utilize this piece of equipment?

Will you use it in your shop exclusively or do you need to take it to different locations?

Do you have a means of supplying compressed air that the tool needs to operate when you’re in a remote location or are you limited to using it at your workshop?

In the light of the answers, consider the following key points that will help you to make the purchasing decision wisely.

Duty cycle

Refers to the proportion of time the cutter can operate without being overheated or shutting down. After this time, the tool needs to be allowed to cool.

Electrical Output

Plasma cutters have its own electricity requirements. They’re compatible with 120 or 220 voltage levels. Some dual voltage plasma cutter can handle both. To get the fine arc, the ability to switch between two voltages is important.

Portability

Portability affects the duty cycle of the tool. More portable cutter provides lower duty cycles. If you need to take the tools from one work site to another, then buy the portable cutter with the features like long cables, handles and shoulder strap.

A Compressor Or An Air Filtration System

Compressor or air filtration system supply air while you cut. Not all plasma cutters come with a built-in air compressor. So, before buying the tool, make sure that there is an external and powerful compressor that meets the manufacturer’s recommendations and any other requirements.

Cutting ability and performance

Obviously not all plasma cutter is suitable for cutting all types of materials and metal. Before selecting the model, it is important to know the cutting performance and the ability of that particular tools. Depending on the amperage’s, the tool differs in performance.

Free-hand use or CNC table

Compatible with CNC interfaces or free-hand cutting- both types of plasma cutter are available in the market. So before selecting a model, ask yourself whether you hook your new plasma cutter up to your CNC table or not?

Replaceable parts/ Consumables

Some unit comes with consumables and some are not. Depending on the usage pattern, you may need to replace some cutting parts. So, when planning to purchase a plasma cutter, take into account the cost of consumables if they are not included in the package.

Product Warranty

There is no scope to ignore this factor. When purchasing a plasma unit, you need to be sure that the equipment is provided with a warranty or guarantee.

Your budget

Some people go with the wrong that a quality plasma cutter needs to be expensive. Of course, a good number of high performing units are expensive, but there is also a good quality unit in the market at an awesome price. So, select the tool according to your cutting needs and budget.

How We've Picked And Tested plasma Cutters

If you have the experience, you must know how hard it is to ﻿﻿use﻿﻿ a cutting blade, saw Saul, a metal grinder or similar instruments for metal works and these aren’t actually a good enough tool to get the job done. Whether you do a lot of repairs and projects work around metal fabrication shop, your house or industries or other big manufacturing company to make your job infinitely easier, a fine and sharp plasma cutter is undoubtedly a very convenient and useful tool.

A mechanic, welder, worker or an artist- whatever you are, if you’re in need of a cheap plasma cutter to do a project at your home/ workshop or a high-end plasma cutter for commercial/ industrial use, it’s really a great challenge to select the best one. Huge types of plasma cutter﻿﻿s are available in the market today and different brands offer different features. Before selecting the one, you should know which tool will be right for you, yet it’s not easy and in some cases quite impossible to find out a functional and reliable plasma cutter for your need.

​We’ve tested a number of plasma cutters of various categories and brand, reviewed a lot of info, taken the owner’s feedback and on-the-job-experience of both professional and buyer, analyzed the sales figure and finally listed the best products for your specific needs and budgets. Our aim is to help you to narrow down your list of plasma cutters providing you all information you need so that you can easily and quickly make your decision.

Undoubtedly, our this informative and resourceful review has helped you to pick the best one.

Concluding Verdict

Buying a plasma cutter is an investment and to make your investment fruitful, you should be serious when deciding to buy one. The amount of task you can do with a plasma cutter and the amount of money you save will be worth every penny of your investment.

However, when it comes to buying a reliable plasma cutter with great features, our listed any of these best Plasma Cutters can be a great option to choose from.

Remember!

With a smart selection (whether it be a cheap or high- price model) you can make a very good use out of it. We’ve tried our best to present you the most reliable and useful information you need to choose the best plasma cutter that will suit your needs and get the job done.

Hopefully, you’ve found your way.

So, why late?

Buy the plasma cutter that is exactly suitable for your purpose.

Hey!

Don't leave our page now.

We know, you're a guy on the go and you can't manage enough time to read all of our products reviews to find out the plasma cutter that best fits your needs.

So, Only for you.........

We've researched a lot and found that ---

A high-performing as well as highly reliable plasma cutter that comes with all the basic features of a cutting machine is Hypertherm Powermax 30